Vuljaj: Social justice must become a practice, not just a norm on paper

Social justice in Montenegro is still too often reduced to promises, while the reality for a large number of citizens is marked by insecure income, unequal access to public services, and limited opportunities for social mobility, said project assistant at the Centre for Civic Education Rozana Vuljaj.

On the occasion of World Day of Social Justice, she also pointed out that international recommendations, such as those of the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, are not being respected, nor are key national documents in the field of poverty reduction.

- Although certain positive economic indicators are often highlighted, they do not reflect the quality of life or the security of the employment and social status of citizens in Montenegro. According to data from the Statistical Office (MONSTAT), the unemployment rate in the third quarter of 2025 was 10.1 percent, while the employment rate stood at 56 percent. However, these figures do not reflect the reality of many employed people who work in insecure conditions, without stable contracts, with low incomes and rising inflation, as well as limited rights, particularly in the areas of education, employment, health care, and social protection - Vuljaj stated.

The average net salary in November 2025 amounted to 1.018 euros, but, she added, this average conceals significant disparities between sectors and regions, as well as the fact that many households still struggle to meet basic living needs, especially in the context of rising prices and housing costs. At the same time, vulnerable groups remain on the margins, often excluded from both social and political processes.

- It is concerning that around 20 percent of Montenegro’s population is at risk of poverty, with children and young people among the most vulnerable. This is also a warning that existing social policies are not sufficiently systemic and effective, but are mainly reduced to short-term and partial measures without lasting impact - Vuljaj said.

Despite this, she emphasized, the Government of Montenegro reduced the 2026 budget for family financial assistance by 500.000 euros, which further deepens the gap between declared social policy goals and budgetary priorities.

- The Centre for Civic Education reminds that Montenegro, in accordance with Article 1 of the Constitution, is defined as a state of social justice. This includes the obligation of institutions to ensure, through concrete, measurable, and sustainable policies, a dignified life, social security, and equal opportunities for all, rather than allowing this constitutional norm to remain merely a norm on paper - Vuljaj said.

The NGO is calling on decision-makers and all relevant social actors to urgently initiate an open and substantive dialogue on reducing social inequalities, with clear goals, responsibilities, and deadlines.

- The realization of economic, social, and cultural rights is not possible without responsible management of public resources, a determined fight against corruption, as well as a strong and independent civil society - Vuljaj stated.

World Day of Social Justice should serve as a reminder that social justice must be a measurable practice of institutions.

- The Centre for Civic Education will continue to contribute to this goal through education, advocacy, research, and strengthening democratic culture - Vuljaj concluded.

World Day of Social Justice, established by the United Nations in 2007, aims to raise awareness about equal opportunities, social inclusion, and poverty reduction.